Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) celebrated its 10th anniversary by holding its annual general meeting (AGM) in Mumbai.
The location marks the first time the AGM has been held outside Europe and recognizes the importance of India in global diamond and jewellery manufacturing and sales.
Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB) joined the RJC as co-hosts of the three-day event, which included visits to manufacturing centres in Surat and SEEPZ Special Economic Zones in Mumbai.
“India remains a strategic priority for the RJC,” said its chair, James Courage. “We thank our co-hosts, GJEPC and BDB, and all the other international and Indian participants that made this event such a success. RJC is delighted this event has strengthened our relationship with the GJEPC and BDB to work together for the future success of the Indian diamond and jewellery industry.”
Senior industry, U.S. government representatives, and civil society experts also participated. In recognition of the role of civil society, the RJC executive committee appointed its first member from civil society. Estelle Levin of Estelle Levin Ltd., was formally appointed co-chair of the RJC standards committee.
Events highlighted how complying with RJC standards has helped the Indian manufacturing sector meet export market expectations, as well as to retain skilled workers as a way of improving quality and productivity.
“The GJEPC was pleased to co-host this important event along with the BDB,” GJEPC chair, Vipul Shah. “We recognize RJC provides one of the most effective ways for our members to show they take responsible business practices seriously to build confidence with international markets for our products.
“We look forward to working more closely with the RJC to accelerate the progress achieved over the last two years, which will further help promote RJC membership to our members. This is an integral part of securing the long-term future for an incredibly successful industry.”
